Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is considered the focal point of Thai culture and as such manages to balance its extensive modern development with its rich cultural heritage, not least of which is evident in Bangkok's numerous exotic temples (wats) and delicious food. Set on the banks of the Chaophraya River, Bangkok is a welcoming and exciting city with a wealth of treasures, a fascinating street life and a legendary nightlife.

Bangkok's Royal Palace complex, with its gleaming golden spires, is arguably Bangkok's most popular attraction amidst a wealth of historic sites that include the ancient Buddhist temples of Wat Arun, Wat Pho and Wat Phra Kaeo. Wat Pho, the largest temple in Bangkok, houses the impressive, 46-metre long, gold Reclining Buddha, and as the national headquarters for the preservation of traditional Thai massage, offers the opportunity of a relaxing massage. Any visit to Bangkok should also include a boat trip down the Chaophraya River to visit the Floating Market or the Royal Barge Museum. Other Bangkok destinations of note include the National Museum, Jim Thompson's House and Vimanmek Mansion Museum.

Bangkok is a shopper's paradise, with a rich assortment of markets and malls. The World Trade Centre is the biggest mall in Bangkok and contains an ice rink and eight cinemas, with Narayana Phand Pavilion opposite for arts and crafts. Ceramics, handicrafts, silks, books and antiques can be found in numerous shops and open-air markets throughout Bangkok. Sukhumvit Road and the stalls of Chatuchak Weekend Market are most easily accessed via the Skytrain. Robinson Department Store is next door to the Pan Pacific Bangkok hotel and Jim Thompson's Silks and the world-famous night markets are only a short stroll from the hotel.

Recreation in Bangkok is varied, from spectator sports such as Thai boxing and horse racing to Bangkok's wide choice of golf courses and, of course, Bangkok's world-famous nightlife. Close to Pan Pacific Bangkok is the Royal Bangkok Sport Club racecourse and the Lumphini Boxing Stadium. A selection of Bangkok golf clubs, easily accessible from the hotel, include the exclusive Thai Country Club, Thana City, the difficult course designed by Greg Norman, and Pete Dye's beautiful Suphapruek Country Club.

Bangkok Attractions

The Grand Palace
Bangkok's major attraction and the former royal residence. West of Pan Pacific Bangkok, in the Riverside district.

Wat Phra Kaeo
The temple resides within the Grand Palace and is home to the famed Emerald Buddha.

Suan-Lum Night Bazaar
The newest shopping centre in Bangkok.

Wat Arun
Also known as Temple of the Dawn, this landmark is probably the best-known image of Bangkok, with its huge 85-metre tower made from small bits of porcelain.

Sukhumvit Road
Visitors can find all types of shopping here, from upmarket antiques to knock-off designer clothes.

Chaophraya River
The waterway serves as a lifeline to Bangkok. Scenic rides on a long-tailed boat provide a memorable experience.

National Museum
This museum offers an enormous collection of Thai art and archaeology.

Bangkok Planetarium and Scientific Museum
Visitors receive a fun-filled education on astronomy and the various branches of science. Unique solar system shows are offered daily.

Bangkok journey

Public buses are plentiful and cheap, with 4 Baht minimum and 6 Baht maximum fares to most destinations within metropolitan Bangkok- Air- conditioned buses within Bangkok have minimum and maximum fares of 6 and 16 baht respectively. Red and grey Micro-Buses, also air conditioned, cost 30 baht for single journey.

A Bus Route Map is available at most hotels, bookshops and the TAT head office for 35 baht.

Taxis and Tuk Tuks

Hotel taxis have fixed tariffs. Taxis cruising the streets of Bangkok, and designated "taximeters" charge 35 baht for the first 3 kilometres and approximately 5 baht for every kilometre thereafter.

Tuk-Tuk or three wheel taxis are quite popular among the tourists for short journeys inside Bangkok. Fares range from a minimum of 30 baht to a maximum of 150 baht. Fares must be bargained for.

River Taxis

There are many boats plying the Chao Phraya River. Some criss-cross between landings on opposite banks while the Chao Phraya Express boats travel upstream and downstream within the metropolis. Fares range between 5 and 15 baht.